Thailand plans to halve visa-free stay for tourists to 30 days

Thai authorities are preparing to halve the period of visa-free stay in the country for foreign tourists.

The move was reported by the Bangkok Post, citing Nattariya Thaweewong, Secretary of Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

According to the official, reducing the permitted visa-free stay from the current 60 days to 30 days is not expected to have a significant impact on tourist arrivals. The change would apply to citizens of 93 countries.

A special committee has been established under the Thai government to assess the potential consequences of the decision. The Ministry of Tourism has provided the committee with all necessary information, including research data, Thaweewong said.

Thai authorities say the reason for shortening the visa-free period is to prevent abuse of the scheme for illegal employment.

“This change should not affect tourism, as foreign visitors stay in Thailand for an average of no more than 21 days. If they wish to remain longer than 30 days, they can simply apply for an extension as usual,” the official explained.

She added that the changes could be approved while the interim government remains in office.

Thailand’s 60-day visa-free entry program for citizens of 93 countries came into effect in mid-2024. 

In 2025, representatives of Thailand’s tourism industry proposed reducing the visa-free stay back to 30 days in order to curb crime among foreigners and promote a safer overall image for the sector.

By Tamilla Hasanova